Relocating and getting settled into a new home can be stressful, draining, and overwhelming. There’s a lot to do in a single day, which can be a blueprint for chaos. Don’t make life any more complicated for you than it needs to be. After all, this is the start of a new life in a new home. To keep track of everything, create a checklist of stuff to do when you settle into your new home. Here are the first steps to take to get settled into your new house.

Change Your Address

Changing your address necessitates the alteration of various official records. After you relocate, you must complete change-of-address paperwork at the nearest post office. Next, notify your bank that you have relocated and assist them in updating your details. If you’ve relocated states or counties, you’ll have to update your car registration and title details, as well as potentially changing your license plates. If you have relocated to a new state, you will need a new driver’s license as well. Visit the local DMV to fill out the necessary paperwork and receive your new license. 

Transfer Utilities and Services

In addition to updating your address on official paperwork, you’ll have to transfer your utilities and services like power, water, gas, phone, and cable to your new address. Most of these utilities allow you to sign up and update your address online, so this step of your transfer shouldn’t take too long. You will also want to set up automatic billing to make this easier on yourself. You can also do this step online. 

Settle Your Pets

When pets are moving to a new house, they can develop anxiety. Set up their space right away and help them adjust to their new surroundings. To keep their bedding and toys smelling normal, don’t wash them for a few weeks. Maintain a routine and try and stay at home as much as possible to make them feel comfortable and happy in your new place. You might want to go on walks with your dog too. This will give them the opportunity to sniff and explore the new neighborhood. 

Establish Internet

To get settled and feel at home, you must have the internet. Not only do your phones, tablets, and laptops need the internet but also your home’s security system. Digital doorbells rely on the internet and house-based applications that switch lighting on and off, water the lawn, and open garage doors. Don’t wait; contact internet providers after your move.

Change Locks

Changing the locks on your new house is a smart idea. Even if you don’t have any reservations about the former owner, you don’t know who else has the keys. This is one of the cases where it is best to be careful than sorry, so have a reliable locksmith visit and change the locks on all doors leading from the inside to the outside of your house, as well as the window locks.

Settling into a new home is inherently stressful, but following the steps outlined above will help make your adjustment a little easier.